Kyoto Gozan no Okuribi: Did you Know 8/16 is a Very Important Day?

We’ve previously talked about Obon, the period for honoring one’s ancestors. On the final day of Obon, 8/16, there’s the very important custom of “Okuribi” (bonfire) for sending the spirits back to Heaven. It’s held all over the country. The one we’re featuring today is the Kyoto Gozan no Okuribi. I’m sure you recognize the photo. This is no simple event; it’s rich in meaning and history and on par in magnitude to Kyoto’s 3 big festivals.

2. Myo / Ho – Matsugasaki

Myo and Ho are counted as one. At the same time at the foot of the mountain is said to be the oldest Bon-odori (dance) in Japan, the Matsugasaki Daimoku Odori. The Bon-odori isn’t merely a festival either, and it’s actually part of the significance of Okuribi.

Tips:They’re lit in this order at 5 min intervals from 8:00PM. It’s believed that the charcoal from the Okuribi wards off evil so people often wrap it in paper and hang it in their entryway.

Hotels with Good Views

You can simply see the Gozan no Okuribi if you go on the day of 8/16 but here are 2 of the best hotels with views of these 5 sites. Keep these in mind and you’ll create great memories just staying on 8/16. Warning: Book in advance because they’re popular!

Kyoto Tower Hotel

Visible Characters: Daimonji, Hidari Daimonji and Toriigata

After enjoying a traditional Japanese course meal, you can sip on sake and enjoy the views from 45m high in the Sky Lounge. There are also maiko dances to watch and yukata to rent so you can feel truly at home in Japan.

Karasuma Kyoto Hotel

Visible Characters: All of them except for Myo

There aren’t really any hotels that can show you all of the Gozan no Okuribi at the same time. This may be a compact hotel but could be used as your base for touring Kyoto. They have an all-you-can-eat buffet and full-course meals that come with your stay. And it’s located not even a minute off the Shijo Station, conveniently located for sightseeing anywhere in Kyoto.

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